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Can dental fillings fall out?

Yes, dental fillings can fall out. Unfortunately, even though they are designed to be durable and long-lasting, they are not perfect and can become loose or dislodge for various reasons. Here are some things to know about fillings falling out:

Why it happens:

  • Normal wear and tear: Fillings are under a lot of pressure during chewing and talking, and over time, this can wear them down and weaken the bond with the tooth.
  • Tooth decay: New decay can develop around the edge of the filling, weakening its hold and causing it to fall out.
  • Bruxism (teeth grinding): Grinding your teeth can put excessive stress on your fillings and eventually cause them to break or come loose.
  • Chewing on hard objects: Biting down on hard candy, ice, or other objects can chip or crack the filling.
  • Trauma: A blow to the face or other trauma can damage the tooth and dislodge the filling.

Learn more: Are Dental Fillings Permanent?

What to do if it happens:

  • Call your dentist immediately: It’s important to schedule an appointment to get the filling replaced as soon as possible. Leaving the exposed tooth unprotected can lead to further decay or sensitivity.
  • Keep the filling (if you can): If you can find the filling, bring it with you to your dentist appointment. This can help them determine the cause of the problem and choose the best way to replace it.
  • Clean the area gently: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to remove any food debris and keep the area clean.
  • Avoid chewing on the affected side: This can irritate the exposed tooth and make the pain worse.
  • Use temporary filling material (optional): Some drugstores sell temporary filling material that you can use to protect the tooth until your appointment.

Overall, the most important thing is to see your dentist as soon as possible if your filling falls out. They can assess the situation, address any underlying problems, and replace the filling to keep your tooth healthy.

If you are looking for a Weymouth dentist near you, please visit Comfort Dental Weymouth, 47 Washington St, Weymouth, MA 02188, (781) 337-3300.